Send an Inquiry

To receive a quote for your project, please fill in the following information, and we’ll get back to you promptly.

Submit Inventory List

Please fill in the following information, and we’ll get back to you promptly.

Home > Products > Integrated Circuits (ICs) > Memory > Memory

Microchip Technology 25AA256-I/MF

Name: 25AA256-I/MF
Brand: Microchip Technology
SKU: 25AA256-I/MF
Price: 2.40 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5 (2 reviews)

Compare

Part No.:: 25AA256-I/MF

Manufacturer:: Microchip Technology

Category:: Memory

Package:: 8-VDFN Exposed Pad

Datasheet:: 25AA256-I/MF.pdf

Description:: IC EEPROM 256KBIT SPI 10MHZ 8DFN

Quantity:: RFQ Add To RFQ list

Payment:

Shipping:

Inventory:573

Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.

Product details

Overview

25AA256-I/MF from Microchip Technology Inc. is a 256 Kbit SPI Serial EEPROM with 32,768 × 8-bit organization, 64-byte page size, and 1.8–5.5 V supply range. It supports up to 10 MHz clock frequency, delivers 5 mA max write current at 5.5 V, and features hardware write protection via WP pin and STATUS register control. It is used in industrial embedded systems for firmware parameter storage and calibration data retention.

For engineers reviewing the 25AA256-I/MF datasheet, 25AA256-I/MF pinout, 25AA256-I/MF application, or 25AA256-I/MF equivalent, key selection considerations include its 1.8 V minimum operating voltage, AEC-Q100 qualified extended temperature support (−40°C to +125°C), block-level write protection granularity, and HOLD pin-enabled SPI bus arbitration capability.

Technical Context

The 25AA256-I/MF implements a standard SPI Mode 0,0 or Mode 1,1 interface with separate SI and SO lines, requiring CS, SCK, SI, SO, WP, HOLD, VCC, and VSS. Its internal architecture includes a write enable latch, nonvolatile STATUS register (BP0/BP1/WEL/WIP), and page latches enabling up to 64-byte page writes within aligned 64-byte boundaries.

It uses low-power CMOS technology with 1 µA standby current at 5.5 V and supports self-timed internal write cycles completing in ≤5 ms. Built-in power-on data protection, write-enable sequencing (WREN/WRDI), and hardware/software write-protection coordination ensure robust operation in noise-prone industrial environments.

Key Specifications

Parameter	Value and Actual Design Meaning
Memory Size	256 Kbit (32,768 × 8-bit) - provides sufficient space for boot configuration, device ID, and runtime calibration tables in resource-constrained microcontrollers.
Interface	SPI-compatible serial bus (Mode 0,0 / Mode 1,1) - enables direct connection to PIC® and other MCU SPI peripherals without protocol translation.
Supply Voltage	1.8 V to 5.5 V - supports single-supply operation across modern low-voltage logic and legacy 5 V systems.
Max Clock Frequency	10 MHz at VCC ≥ 4.5 V - enables fast read/write throughput (up to ~1.25 MB/s theoretical burst read) while maintaining timing margin.
Page Size	64 bytes - defines maximum contiguous write length; crossing page boundary wraps data instead of advancing, requiring software address alignment.
Write Endurance	1,000,000 erase/write cycles - ensures >10 years of daily reconfiguration in field-deployed industrial controllers.
Data Retention	>200 years at 25°C - guarantees long-term integrity of stored calibration coefficients and security keys without refresh.

Pinout & Package

25AA256-I/MF is housed in an 8-lead DFN (Dual Flat No-lead) package, measuring 2 mm × 3 mm × 0.75 mm, with wettable flank leads for automated optical inspection (AOI) and enhanced solder joint reliability.

Pin/Terminal	Circuit Role	Design Meaning
CS	Chip Select Input	Active-low enable signal; must be held low for entire SPI transaction; rising edge initiates internal write cycle after valid write sequence.
SO	Serial Data Output	Tri-state open-drain output; data shifted out on falling edge of SCK; enters high-impedance state when CS is high or HOLD is asserted.
WP	Write-Protect Pin	Hardware lock for STATUS register nonvolatile bits; effective only when WPEN bit = 1; allows selective array protection independent of software commands.
VSS	Ground Reference	Primary return path for all I/O and core circuitry; requires low-impedance PCB connection to minimize noise coupling during write operations.
SI	Serial Data Input	CMOS input latching instruction, address, and data on rising edge of SCK; accepts MSB-first SPI framing compatible with standard MCU drivers.
SCK	Serial Clock Input	Asynchronous master-generated clock; timing-critical for setup/hold compliance; rise/fall times ≤100 ns required at 10 MHz operation.
HOLD	Hold Input	Pauses ongoing SPI transfer without resetting state machine; must be asserted while SCK is low; tri-states SO immediately upon assertion.
VCC	Supply Voltage	Core and I/O power rail; decoupling capacitor (0.1 µF ceramic) required within 5 mm of pin to suppress switching noise during write cycles.

Key Features

Feature	Design Value
Block Write Protection	Selectively protects 0%, 25%, 50%, or 100% of memory array via BP0/BP1 bits - enables secure partitioning of user data, factory calibration, and firmware metadata regions.
HOLD Pin Functionality	Halts SPI communication mid-sequence without loss of address pointer or command state - allows host MCU to service higher-priority interrupts then resume transparently.
Low-Voltage Operation	Guaranteed functionality down to 1.8 V - enables direct integration into battery-powered or energy-harvesting sensor nodes without level-shifting circuitry.
Extended Temperature Range	Rated for −40°C to +125°C (E grade) - validated for under-hood automotive and industrial motor drive applications where ambient thermal stress exceeds standard industrial limits.
ESD Robustness	>4 kV HBM on all pins - reduces risk of field failure due to handling or system-level ESD events in unshielded industrial enclosures.

Applications

Industrial PLC Configuration Storage	Automotive Body Control Module (BCM)
Use Scenario: Storing I/O mapping tables, PID tuning parameters, and fault log history in programmable logic controllers deployed in factory automation lines. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration register bank accessed via SPI during boot and runtime reconfiguration; retains values across power cycles and brownouts. Use Value: Enables field-upgradable control logic without firmware reflashing; 200-year data retention eliminates periodic backup maintenance.	Use Scenario: Holding seat position memory, mirror angle presets, and lighting profiles in automotive BCMs subject to wide thermal cycling and vibration. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: AEC-Q100 qualified EEPROM providing persistent user preference storage; interfaces directly with 3.3 V CAN/LIN microcontroller SPI peripheral. Use Value: Eliminates need for external voltage supervisors or backup capacitors; 1.8 V operation supports low-power sleep modes during vehicle off-state.
Medical Infusion Pump Calibration	Smart Energy Meter Firmware Metadata
Use Scenario: Storing flow rate calibration coefficients, pump motor compensation curves, and usage audit logs in Class II medical devices requiring traceable parameter history. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure, tamper-resistant parameter vault; write-protected sections prevent accidental overwrites during routine diagnostics or firmware updates. Use Value: Meets IEC 62304 data integrity requirements; 1M endurance supports lifetime recalibration every 3 months over 27+ years.	Use Scenario: Recording firmware version stamps, cryptographic key counters, and tariff schedule timestamps in ANSI C12.22-compliant utility meters operating in outdoor substations. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-reliability nonvolatile scratchpad for time-critical metadata; HOLD pin allows meter SoC to pause EEPROM access during RF transmission bursts. Use Value: Prevents data corruption during wireless comms interference; 125°C rating ensures stable operation inside sealed meter enclosures exposed to solar loading.

Industrial PLC Configuration Storage

Automotive Body Control Module (BCM)

Use Scenario: Storing I/O mapping tables, PID tuning parameters, and fault log history in programmable logic controllers deployed in factory automation lines.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Nonvolatile configuration register bank accessed via SPI during boot and runtime reconfiguration; retains values across power cycles and brownouts.

Use Value: Enables field-upgradable control logic without firmware reflashing; 200-year data retention eliminates periodic backup maintenance.

Use Scenario: Holding seat position memory, mirror angle presets, and lighting profiles in automotive BCMs subject to wide thermal cycling and vibration.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: AEC-Q100 qualified EEPROM providing persistent user preference storage; interfaces directly with 3.3 V CAN/LIN microcontroller SPI peripheral.

Use Value: Eliminates need for external voltage supervisors or backup capacitors; 1.8 V operation supports low-power sleep modes during vehicle off-state.

Medical Infusion Pump Calibration

Smart Energy Meter Firmware Metadata

Use Scenario: Storing flow rate calibration coefficients, pump motor compensation curves, and usage audit logs in Class II medical devices requiring traceable parameter history.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secure, tamper-resistant parameter vault; write-protected sections prevent accidental overwrites during routine diagnostics or firmware updates.

Use Value: Meets IEC 62304 data integrity requirements; 1M endurance supports lifetime recalibration every 3 months over 27+ years.

Use Scenario: Recording firmware version stamps, cryptographic key counters, and tariff schedule timestamps in ANSI C12.22-compliant utility meters operating in outdoor substations.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-reliability nonvolatile scratchpad for time-critical metadata; HOLD pin allows meter SoC to pause EEPROM access during RF transmission bursts.

Use Value: Prevents data corruption during wireless comms interference; 125°C rating ensures stable operation inside sealed meter enclosures exposed to solar loading.

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar serial EEPROM applications.

Alternative Part	Technical Difference	Application Difference	Selection Advice
AT25DF041A-SSH-T	4 Mbit density, quad SPI interface, 3.3 V only (2.7–3.6 V), no HOLD pin, 100k endurance	Better suited for high-speed firmware code shadowing; lacks HOLD and low-voltage flexibility	Choose when needing larger capacity and faster sequential reads, but not for 1.8 V or interrupt-aware designs
BR25H256FJ-WE2	256 Kbit, 1.7–5.5 V, SPI interface, built-in error correction (ECC), 300k endurance, no WP/HOLD pins	Targeted at functional safety (IEC 61508 SIL2); ECC corrects single-bit errors but adds latency	Prefer for safety-critical systems requiring data integrity verification, but avoid if HOLD arbitration or hardware write-protect is mandatory

Compared with AT25DF041A-SSH-T and BR25H256FJ-WE2, the 25AA256-I/MF uniquely balances ultra-low voltage operation (1.8 V), full SPI feature set (HOLD, WP, status polling), and industrial-grade endurance/reliability - making it optimal for cost-sensitive, thermally demanding, and interrupt-driven embedded control applications.

Availability

25AA256-I/MF is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLCs, automotive body control modules, medical infusion pumps, and smart energy meters requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and multi-year production lifecycles.

Supply support for 25AA256-I/MF includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Microchip Technology Inc. is a U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and memory solutions, with global manufacturing and quality certifications including ISO 9001 and IATF 16949.

The 25AA256-I/MF belongs to Microchip's serial EEPROM product line, designed specifically for reliable, low-power, SPI-based nonvolatile data storage in industrial, automotive, and medical applications where write endurance, data retention, and voltage flexibility are critical.

FAQ

What is the minimum supply voltage required for reliable operation of the 25AA256-I/MF?

The 25AA256-I/MF operates reliably down to 1.8 V across its full industrial temperature range. This is confirmed in the Device Selection Table and DC CHARACTERISTICS section of the DS20001822H datasheet, where VCC min = 1.8 V is specified for both I and E grades. At 1.8 V, maximum clock frequency is reduced to 3 MHz, and write current drops to 0.15 mA, ensuring compatibility with ultra-low-power systems. The 25AA256-I/MF maintains full functionality-including HOLD, WP, and STATUS register access-at this voltage.

How does the HOLD pin function during an active SPI transaction on the 25AA256-I/MF?

The HOLD pin on the 25AA256-I/MF suspends SPI communication mid-sequence without resetting internal state. When asserted low while SCK is low, it places SO in high-impedance, ignores SI/SCK transitions, and preserves the current address pointer and command context. Resuming requires bringing HOLD high while SCK remains low. This behavior is documented in Section 2.1 and Figure 1-1 of DS20001822H and enables host MCUs to service time-critical interrupts without retransmitting the entire command sequence-critical in real-time control loops.

Can the 25AA256-I/MF be used in automotive applications requiring AEC-Q100 qualification?

Yes-the 25AA256-I/MF is explicitly AEC-Q100 qualified for automotive use, as stated in the Features section of DS20001822H. Its "E" temperature grade (−40°C to +125°C) and qualification testing cover under-hood and cabin applications such as body control modules and instrument clusters. The part number suffix "I/MF" denotes Industrial temperature grade in DFN package, but the underlying die and qualification apply across packaging variants; Microchip confirms AEC-Q100 compliance for all 25AA256 variants including MF.

What happens if a page write crosses a 64-byte boundary on the 25AA256-I/MF?

If a page write command attempts to cross a 64-byte physical boundary on the 25AA256-I/MF, data wraps around to the start of the same page instead of advancing to the next page. This is explicitly warned in Section 2.3: "If a page write command attempts to write across a physical page boundary, the result is that the data wraps around… overwriting data previously stored there." Software must enforce address alignment to prevent unintended overwrites-a constraint verified in the AC and Functional Description sections of DS20001822H.

How is hardware write protection implemented on the 25AA256-I/MF using the WP pin?

Hardware write protection on the 25AA256-I/MF requires both the WP pin to be driven low *and* the WPEN bit (STATUS register bit 7) set to 1. When both conditions are met, writes to nonvolatile STATUS register bits (BP0, BP1, WPEN) are blocked-though array reads, writes, and volatile STATUS reads remain functional. This dual-condition mechanism is defined in Table 2-1 and Section 2.6, allowing systems with permanently grounded WP pins to retain full configurability by clearing WPEN during initialization.

25AA256-I/MF Specifications

Product attributes: Attribute value

Manufacturer:: Microchip Technology

Series:: -

Package/Case:: 8-VDFN Exposed Pad

Packaging:: Tube

Product Status:: Active

Programmable:: Not Verified

Memory Type:: Non-Volatile

Memory Format:: EEPROM

Technology:: EEPROM

Memory Size:: 256Kbit

Memory Organization:: 32K x 8

Memory Interface:: SPI

Clock Frequency:: 10 MHz

Write Cycle Time - Word, Page:: 5ms

Access Time:: -

Voltage - Supply:: 1.8V ~ 5.5V

Operating Temperature:: -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)

Grade:: -

Qualification:: -

Mounting Type:: Surface Mount

Supplier Device Package:: 8-DFN-S (6x5)

25AA256-I/MF FAQ

1.How can I place an order for 25AA256-I/MF through Aetrix?

Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 25AA256-I/MF on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.

2.Are the price and stock information for 25AA256-I/MF reliable?

The price and inventory of 25AA256-I/MF are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 25AA256-I/MF is usually 5 days.

3.What payment methods are accepted for 25AA256-I/MF?

We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 25AA256-I/MF transactions.

Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.

4.How is shipping managed for 25AA256-I/MF?

25AA256-I/MF orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.

Once your 25AA256-I/MF order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.

Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.

5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for 25AA256-I/MF?

For technical support, including 25AA256-I/MF datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 25AA256-I/MF requirements.

6.How does Aetrix verify that 25AA256-I/MF is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?

All 25AA256-I/MF products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that 25AA256-I/MF meets industry standards.

7.What is the process for return or replacement of 25AA256-I/MF?

All 25AA256-I/MF units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 25AA256-I/MF, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:

1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.

2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.

3.The 25AA256-I/MF part is unused and in its original packaging.

Return procedure for 25AA256-I/MF:

1.Submit a request within 90 days.

2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.

Tech Hub

2026-09-07 TTL vs CMOS Logic Levels: 74HC and 74HCT Compatibility Explained

TTL and CMOS logic families differ in thresholds, loading, output drive, power and timing. This engineering guide compares 74HC and 74HCT, calculates noise margins and checks 3.3 V/5 V compatibility.

2026-09-04 Logic Level Shifter: How to Connect 3.3V and 5V Logic Safely

A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.

2026-09-03 74HC595 vs TPIC6B595: Output Drive, Pinout, Current, and Load Selection

The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…

2026-09-02 74HC595 Pinout, Timing, Output Current, and Applications

The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…

2026-09-01 Latch vs Flip-Flop: Timing, Differences and Design Choices

A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…

2026-08-30 D Latch Circuit: Truth Table, Timing, ICs and Applications

A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …

2026-08-28 SR Latch Explained: NOR and NAND Circuits, Truth Tables, and Applications

An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…

2026-08-27 Latch Circuit: SR and D Latches, Truth Tables, Timing, and Applications

Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…

2026-08-21 What Is an LED Driver? Types, Circuits, Dimming, and Selection

An engineering guide to LED driver operation, constant-current and constant-voltage outputs, linear and switching topologies, dimming, IC selection, calculations, replacement compatibility, and fault c…

2026-08-18 Operational Amplifier (Op Amp): Basics, Configurations, Feedback and Applications

Operational amplifier guide covering op amp basics, feedback, ideal vs real op amps, common configurations, buffer circuits, offset, bias current, gain-bandwidth, slew rate, rail-to-rail limits and sel…